NSC Stands with OSHA on Fall Safety

Fatalities caused by falls from elevation continue to be a leading cause of death for construction workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 366 of the 971 construction fatalities in 2017 were caused by falls from elevation. All of these deaths are preventable.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, with support from the National Safety Council and dozens of other groups, asks employers to take a few minutes to discuss fall protection and safety when working from heights during the annual
Fall Safety Stand Down in May.

What is the National Safety Stand-Down?

The program was originally a two-year effort, launched on
Workers Memorial Day in 2012, to raise awareness of preventing fall hazards in construction. It was so successful, it continues at the start of every construction season. Tens of thousands of employers nationwide and more than a million workers participate in the annual Fall Safety Stand-Down.

All Industries Can Conduct a Stand-Down

Following highway crashes, falls are the second leading cause of workplace death. While construction workers are most at risk, falls can happen in agriculture, manufacturing, transportation and any other industry that involves working from height. NSC and OSHA encourage workers in all industries to conduct a Stand-Down. No company is too small to participate; roughly half of events nationwide are held by companies with 25 or fewer employees.

It's Easy to Conduct a Stand-Down

A Fall Safety Stand-Down can be a one-time event, or it can incorporate fall-safety events throughout the week. Managers are encouraged to plan a Stand-Down that works best for their workplace. Consider:

Certificate of Participation

Employers are welcome to provide information about their Stand-Down and download a Certificate of Participation following their event(s). This certificate recognizes the time and effort each organization devoted to talking about preventing falls with their crews.

To get the certificate, simply fill out this form and let OSHA know what activity you completed for the Stand-Down. OSHA also appreciates any feedback on the Stand-Down campaign and future outreach efforts. Please email [email protected].